Potts — who in nearly 70 years in Westport has impacted nearly every artistic and historical organization here — is about to debut “Talk of the Town.”
The project — a collaboration with fellow Westporter Andrew Bentley — has been more than 10 years in the making.
It will be worth it. The staged reading of their original musical, “Talk of the Town” (Westport Country Playhouse, June 8) tells the true tale of the 2 love stories that launched the legendary magazine.
Playwrights Eve Potts and Andrew Bentley.
Hundreds of books have been written about the New Yorker, Potts says. But very little have delved into that love aspect of the original story.
And certainly not in a musical.
The fact that Potts had never written a musical, in all her 96 years?
No problem!
Westport has a long history with the magazine. Local artists have illustrated dozens of covers.
In 2014 she curated a Westport Historical Society show, featuring some of that art. Each work was accompanied by a photo of the same location, now.
A “New Yorker” cover, and the same scene now.
Bentley had just moved back to town. A graphic designer and writer, he wrote her out of the blue. Do you want to do a book? he asked.
They collaborated on “The New Yorker in Westport.” A collection of those covers — with background material — it has raised over $100,000 for local charities.
The cover of Eve Potts and Andrew Bentley’s book shows a classic Compo Beach scene, from 1973.
Soon, they were ready for their next act: a show about the magazine’s founding, with an emphasis on the “love stories” behind it.
As the idea took shape, Potts and Bentley — who also had never written a musical — enlisted Jeffrey Stock. He created all the songs, which gave structure and spirit to the story.
Irving Berlin figures prominently in the launch of the New Yorker. So does Harold Ross and his wife Jane Grant. Potts calls her “a beautiful, intelligent, powerful woman — a proto-feminist.”
A dancer and singer who had gone to business school, she famously kept her maiden name — a rarity at the time.
The fervent Roaring Twenties, when New York — with its jazz, speakeasies and unbridled optimism — was ready for a sophisticated magazine plays a major role in the new musical too.
Before and while writing a play about those early years, Potts read “every scrap” she could.
There was a lot. Founder Harold Ross typed most of his thoughts, then added hand-written comments. Potts pored through his archives, at the New York Public Library.
The Playhouse staged reading will be the first time — after a decade of work — that “Talk of the Town” is seen in public. (There have been a couple of table reads at Bentley’s home.)
Potts and Bentley have enjoyed working with the WCP team, to bring it to life. “They’re so supportive and helpful,” she says. “It’s been very educational to see what goes on behind the scenes.”
Potts — who is “more is excited than I thought I’d ever be” — gives big props to her co-writer.
“Andrew is on top of everything,” she says. “He’s incredible with details. He does a lot of the scut work.”
Potts and Bentley are unsure of the next steps. Can it become a musical staged by high schools? Will a producer stage it on Broadway?
But one thing is almost certain: 96-year-old Eve Potts is the oldest new playwright in America.
What better way to celebrate the 100th birthday of the New Yorker?
The former Davis Cup tennis player/Cameroon national champion/beloved local tennis coach has changed many lives in Africa.
The Oyebog Tennis Academy in Cameroon has provided free tennis coaching, food, shelter and education to tens of thousands of underprivileged children.
To his students, Joseph is more than a coach. He is a father figure, mentor, and beacon of hope.
Westporters have supported OTA generously. Now Joseph needs our help.
He was diagnosed with pancreatitis, which led to severe liver damage and many other life-threatening complications.
His condition is rapidly deteriorating, and the local hospital in Cameroon cannot handle his complex case.
Doctors strongly recommend that he be medically evacuated to a major healthcare facility in the US, where his wife and children now live.
Joseph’s many friends are raising funds to cover the costs of his medical evacuation, treatment, postoperative care and rehabilitation, so he can continue his mission at the Oyebog Tennis Academy.
Speaking of fundraisers: They may be teenagers, but Staples High School senior Jack Schwartz — co-president of the Yale Junior Board — and clssmates Jackson Tracey, Ryan Sunjka and Lucy Barneu are organizing the 3rd annual “Heartbeat for Hope” fundraiser.
Money raised for Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital wil support sick kids and under-resourced families, as they struggle through difficult medical complications.
It’s a rowing and running competition. Everyone receives a t-shirt.
Last year’s running and rowing competition …
The dates are May 31 and June 1 (12:30 p.m.) in Westport; May 31 (10:45 a.m.) in New Haven, at Orange Theory.
There is no entry fee. Team members reach out to friends and family. and encourage donations.
The Artists Collective of Westport hosts 2 intriguing shows at the Westport Library.
“Interiors: A Look Inside” explores physical, metaphysical and emotional spaces through the visual arts.
Contributors include Bonnie Edelman, Lynn Carlson, Peggy Dembicer, Ros Shaffer, Norm Siegel, Suzanne Benton, Julie Leff, Trace Burroughs, Diane Pollack, Miggs Burroughs, Kat Evans, Niki Ketchman and more.
“Piece by Piece” is a 6-foot by 8-foot installation composed of the work of 48 Artists Collective members.
Each received a 12-inch by 12-inch blank panel, and a 12-inch square section randomly selected from a well-known modern painting. The artists created individual pieces, replicating a part of the larger painting in their own style, without knowing what the final painting will look like until it is revealed at the opening reception (June 6, 6 p.m.).
Each 12-inch by 12-inch “piece” of “Piece by Piece” is available for purchase, starting at the reception. Each square is $100, with 50% of the proceeds supporting the Library’s art programs and 50% going to the artist.
The additional artworks on display in the Sheffer and South Galleries are also available for purchase, with a percentage of the proceeds also going the Library’s art programming.
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The long-delayed Lincoln Street apartment project is making headway.
The first construction — elevator shafts — are done. Floors and walls are being added now. Here’s a recent view:
(Photo/Bill Christiaanse)
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Sunday’s rainbow over Owenoke — as seen from the Longshore golf course — stars as today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured image.
And finally … on this date in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to pedestrian traffic. The link between San Francisco and Marin County changed both places forever.
Two of Westport’s most popular spots — downtown and Compo Beach — were where the action was yesterday.
Between the 52nd annual Fine Arts Festival and the 2nd-ever Kickoff to Summer, there was something for everyone. First, the Fest:
Watercolors, oil paintings, woodworking, sculptures, photos — all those mediums and more are on display this weekend, on Main and Elm Streets, and nearby Church Lane.
In its half century, the Westport Downtown Association event has become one of the top shows in the nation. This year, it drew 165 artists. Over 40 are first-timers here. Seven are from Westport.
Popular local photographer John Videler is a first-time Fine Arts Festival exhibitor. He’s selling scenes of Westport, and much more.
The Fine Arts Festival includes family activities like face painting, crafts, games, and dancing and photo ops.
Crafts for kids.
It’s a real festival, with wine and beer for adults, food vendors, and music. The show continues today (Sunday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) More information is available here.
The School of Rock rocks.
Here come (2 of) the judges: Miggs Burroughs and Sandy Pelletier.
Staples High School students show their work.
Dylan Curran and Captain Jillian Cabana keep everyone safe.
Westport photographer Nancy Breakstone, at her traditional spot near Anthropologie.
Music on the Main and Elm Streets corner. (All photos/Dan Woog)
The first arrivals: The view from Brooks Corner. (Photo/Andrew Colabella)
Best in Show award winner: Kathryn Maher. She’s in Booth 18. (Photo/Brian Spurr)
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At the same time, dozens of families flocked to Compo Beach. “06880” intern Katherine Phelps reports:
Westport officially opened its brand-new, fully inclusive Compo Beach playground this week, in a very appropriate way: with children’s laughter.
The new play space’s inauguration was part of a day-long celebration sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Department, complete with bouncy houses, food trucks and games.
The new playground replaces the popular structure first built in 1989, then refurbished in 2006.
It has been reimagined with inclusivity, safety and community spirit in mind. It features modern equipment designed for children of all abilities, including sensory elements, accessible play zones, and “mommy-and-me” swings that promote connection and bonding.
2nd Selectwoman Andrea Moore noted the intergenerational nature of the project as “a coordination of a lot of different groups.
“It wasn’t just the town. It was such a great community project. I worked on this 18 years ago, the last time it was rebuilt. Now it’s incredible to see a new generation of young Westporters volunteering.”
From classic swings and towering play structures to a pretend ice cream truck that kids could not get enough of, the new Compo playground is designed for everyone.
Courtney Kornblum, at the opening with her young daughter, was excited about the new playground.
“It’s pretty remarkable,” Kornblum said. “There’s a lot more for younger ages now. The mommy-and-me swings and the drums — it really brings people together. You look around, and everyone’s smiling.”
Beyond the equipment itself, the event was a celebration of the teamwork that went into the renovation. Volunteers of all ages participated in the build. Former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, who was involved in the previous playground updates, was also part of this renovation.
“This playground has a lot of history for me,” he said. “I helped out when it was first built, and again in 2006. Last year, the Westport Rotary Club decided to make a major donation to the reconstruction. It was the perfect fit.”
Marpe noted that when he took his grandchildren to the previous structure, he felt as though something was just slightly off.
“I can’t wait to bring them now,” Marpe said. “There is just so much to do, and something for everyone. We wanted it to be as accessible as possible for every child to enjoy.”
Kids began enjoying it the moment the celebration ended.
And they will keep doing so until the next rebuild, a couple of decades from now.
After the playground celebration, kids headed over to the Kickoff to Summer, near the basketball courts.
Lifeguards (from left) Olivia Kuliga, Molly Whittle and Ella Harrington keep a close (and smiling) watch.
(All photos/Katherine Phelps)
Volunteers and kids say “cheese!” (Photo/David Klee)
Posted onMay 24, 2025|Comments Off on Online Art Gallery #267
It’s a record!
Over 20 artists are featured in today’s online art gallery. What a great way to kick off Westport’s Fine Arts Festival. As every artist must know, it runs today and tomorrow (Saturday and Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Main Street, Elm Street and Church Lane.
See you there — after, of course, you check out the works here.
And don’t forget: “06880” readers are always welcome to submit art. No matter what style or subject you choose — and whether you’re a first-timer or old-timer — we welcome your submissions. Watercolors, oils, charcoal, pen-and-ink, acrylics, digital, lithographs, collages, macramé, jewelry, sculpture, decoupage, needlepoint — we want whatever you’ve got.
This feature is open to all. Age, level of experience, subject matter — there are no restrictions. Everyone can contribute.
Please email a JPG to 06880blog@gmail.com. And please include the medium you’re working in — art lovers want to know.
“Magnolia Tree Bloom in the Fog” (Bonnie Connolly)
“Sunshine Blooms” (Dorrie Barlow Thomas)
“Hope Garden” — Westport Senior Center (Laurie Sorensen)
“Black-Eyed Susan — Coming Soon to Your Lawn or Garden” (Peter Barlow)
Untitled (Joan Micale — Available for purchase; click here)
“Bernie the Service Dog” (Missy Greenberg)
“Standing Tall and Gnarly” (Patricia McMahon — Available for purchase; click here)
Mike Hibbard says, “Crown of sharp needles locked around the slave’s head until blood flows. Any disobedience and master hits the metal crown harder to drive the needles deeper. Slavery is still rampant in our world!”
Untitled — wall sculpture; calla lily wrapped in fall leaf, resin, mounted on found cored circular scrap metal (Maureen Estony — Available for purchase; click here)
“Smooch” — abstract digital image, produced in Midjourney and Photoshop (Ken Runkel — Available for purchase; click here)
Untitled (Duane Cohen — Available for purchase; click here)
“Virgin Gorda” — 3 paintings, oil on panel, each 12 x 16 (Werner Liepolt — Available for purchase; click here)
“Ghost of Drowned Keeper Frederick Jordan at Penfield Reef Light in Fairfield, CT Still Helps in Rescuing Mariners” — original oil on canvas, 11 x 14 (L. Miceli — Available for purchase; click here)
“Above the Mown Patch” — watercolor, 15 x 22 (Kathleen Burke; Available for purchase — click here)
Untitled (Karen Schlansky — Available for purchase; click here)
“Standing Proud” — oil and cold wax on cradled board, 24 x 30 (Helen Rolfe Ham — Available for purchase, $695 plus shipping; click here)
“Under the Sea” — painted horseshoe crab shells, mounted on wood (Eric Bosch)
“Mishegas, Bedlam and All Sorts of Chaos” — India ink and watercolor (Aerin Lichtman, 13 years old)
“Ready for a Memorable Memorial Day at Compo” (Steve Stein)
“Strawberry” (Lawrence Weisman)
“Alyssa’s Mom” — digital (Mary Treschitta — Commissions upon request; click here)
(Entrance is free to our online art gallery. But please consider a donation! Just click here — and thank you!)
There’s a Touch-a-Truck show, face painting, obstacle courses, raffles and food trucks.
It’s a perfect place for bikes. And Bike Westport invites everyone to ride to the beach (or bring bikes in your car).
They’ll be set up by the basketball court, with:
Bike Rodeo: Kids navigate a safe, marked course with cones/signals (helmets required). Led by the Westport Police Department.
Helmet inspection and bike assessment: Is your gear up to date and safe to ride? A professional mechanic will be there to assess.
Test Ride: New bikes, E-bikes and traditional, if you’re looking to upgrade.
Giveaways: Bike Westport swag, and CB Sportif discount coupons for bike service.
Bike Westport info: Learn how to get involved and donate. Share your ideas for safer, more walkable and bike friendly streets and routes in Westport.
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Speaking of bikes: The town’s next Traffic and Pedestrian Safety update session is Thursday, May 29 (7 p.m., Town Hall auditorium).
The Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Task Force will offer details on their progress, and hear input from residents about issues of concern.
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Bedford Middle School was packed last night, for Westport Public Schools’ 4th annual district-wide art exhibition
“Spark” — a celebration of student creativity and artistic expression — is “a powerful display of the depth and breadth of arts education and the role it plays in shaping thoughtful, expressive, and empathetic students,” says Steve Zimmerman, WPS music and visual arts coordinator.
The show features over 1,000 works of art from students in pre-K through Advanced Placement Art & Design. They include observational drawings, mixed media, sculptures and digital art.
A small part of the large “SPARK” student art exhibit.
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Back in the day, there were 2 mini-golf courses in Westport.
Is it time for another?
The Westport Youth Commission wants to know.
They’ve created a quick survey to gauge interest. All ages can participate — because mini-golf appeals to every.
The miniature golf course (and driving range), owned by the Backiel family. It’s now the site of the Regents Park condos, near the BevMax shopping plaza.
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The Staples High School internship program is a chance for seniors to get out in the field for a few weeks. They test the real world, right before graduation.
Andre Albanese and Grace Zhang take that literally.
The two are spending their internship with the Westport Farmers’ Market.
They work on farms, help the bakers, learn to makek bagels, and help facilitate the WFM’s operations every Thursday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot).
They also spend time learning who grows their food. And they eat plenty of it — happily and healthfully.
The Mom Salon podcast is a way for women to feel less alone in motherhood.
But what good is listening to their show alone?
Hosts Melissa Fairchild (a post-partum therapist) and Leah Devito (a stylist and community organizer) are hosting “The Ultimate Moms’ Night Out” at Content Studio on Saugatuck Avenue (May 29, 7 p.m.).
In addition to a live capture of their podcast, they promise cocktails, lite bites, Bridgewater chocolates, Sweet Bond permanent jewlery, and plenty of networking opportunities.
Jay Norris is one of Westport’s most active residents. He’s the founder of Westport10, a co-founder and board member of StartUp Westport, Westport Weston Family YMCA board member and former board member of the Westport Library — and that’s just here.
Jay is also co-chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, a board member of the New York Urban League — in addition to his full-time job as co-founder and CEO of Guesst.
In his Urban League role, he’ll celebrate the 59th annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala in New York (June 5, 6:30 p.m., Ziegfield Ballroom, New York City).
Honorees include Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, actress Meagan Good, Great Performances founder and CEO Liz Neumark, and Xponance founder, CEO and CIO Tina Byles Williams. Details and reservations are available here.
Frederick Douglass
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Viburnum makes its first-ever appearance in our “Westport … Naturally” feature. Welcome!
Westport’s Fine Arts Festival is just 2 days away.
On Saturday and Sunday (May 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), the national Top 20 show draws 165 fine artists from 19 states to Main Street and Elm Street. As always, there are returning faces. This year, 41 artists are new.
The Westport Downtown Association event includes plenty of family activities. They include Elmo and friends, facepainting, crafts, games, dancing and photo ops.
The new Long Lots Elementary School is on the agenda for a joint Conservation Commission, and Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting June 4 (7 p.m., Zoom; meeting ID 864 1571 7675; passcode 407757).
Later in the meeting, the Flood & Erosion Control Board, meeting separately, will consider the wetlands aspects of the application for the Hamlet at Saugatuck project.
Muddy Brook, near Long Lots Elementary School. (Photo/Peter Swift)
Westport Police made no custodial arrests between May 14 and 21.
They issued these citations:
Traveling unreasonably fast: 11 citations
Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 10
Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 3
Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 3
Driving while texting: 2
Failure to renew registration: 2
Speeding: 1
Texting, 2nd offense: 1
Distracted driving: 1
Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
No passing zone violation: 1
Failure to grant right of way: 1
Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1
Disorderly conduct: 1
Disobeying the signal of an officer: 1
Do not disobey a police officer!
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Eleish Van Breens Home celebrates “Glorious Gardens and Styled Interiors,” with a meet-and-greet and book signing with author Dara Caponigro and interior stylist Mieke Ten Have on June 4 (June 4, 4 p.m., 177 Main Street).
“Botanical beverages” and lite bites are provided by Allium. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local garden clubs.
Dara Caponigro’s book.
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Everyone has heard of the Lindy, twist and electric slide.
But the grizzly bear? Maxixe? Lulu fado?
Susan de Gardiola has. And the social dance historian brings her knowledge to the Weston History & Culture Center on May 31 (2 p.m.). Her “May I Have This Dance?” celebrates the openng of an exhibit on the changes in dance and music in the years from the sinking of the Titanic through World War I.
She’ll talk about fads, and the musicians of that era too. Free for members; $10 for non-members.
The companion exhibit — from her private collection — includes original early 20th century dance manuals, rare sheet music, and dance cards.
The next day (June 1, 2 p.m.), the Weston History & Culture Center hosts a Ragtime Tea Dance. De Guardiola will teach the 1-step, 2-step, foxtrot, tango and other dances from the ragtime era. No partner or experience needed! Tickets are $25 for members, $35 non-members. Only 25 spots are available.
Irene and Vernon Castle.
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Spring is finally — and fully — here.
Greenery is everywhere. Including today’s “Westport … Naturally” view, in the Old Hill neighborhood.
His real name is George Wendt. But everybody knows his name.
(Like “Cheers” years ago, “06880” is something you trust will always be there. We rely on reader support to make that happen. Please click here to make sure we keep serving ’em up for you.)
This Saturday marks the start of Memorial Day weekend.
And — thanks to Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department — it’s also the kickoff to summer.
Plus the grand reopening of the Compo Beach playground.
The full day at Compo begins with an “unveiling” at the playground, at 10:30 a.m. There’s a special invitation to all who helped renovate it. Wear your team shirts, for a group photo.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the family-friendly “Kickoff to Summer” includes:
Touch-a-Truck, with vehicles from Westport Police, Fire, EMS, Public Works, and Parks & Recreation Maintenance
Face painting
Obstacle courses
Program info and demonstrations
Raffle prizes, with giveaways from Longshore Golf, Longshore Sailing School, and IST Camp
Food trucks: Good Burger. The Parlor Pizza, The Milk Truck, LobsterCraft, Fork in the Road.
But wait! There’s more!
At 8:15 p.m., a bonus Movie Night at the Beach — “Trolls” — begins. Bring a blanket and chairs, for the grand finale of the Kickoff to Summer.
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The “06880” tagline is “Where Westport meets the world.”
It doesn’t get more worldly than the Olympics.
Saatva — the luxury mattress company whose made-to-order products are hand-delivered by white-glove teams; whose founder and CEO Ron Rudzin is a longtime Westporter, and which last summer opened a store across from the Sherwood Diner — will be the official provider of mattresses and bedding for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
The cardboard bed frames used in Tokyo in 2020 and Paris last year — selected for sustainability and, some reports said, to collapse under the weight of 2 people enjoying more than sleeping — did not win any medals. (Hat tip: Dave Briggs)
You can get the same bedding as Olympians, right next to Walgreens. (Photo/Bob Weingarten)
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It may rain tomorrow.
But the Westport Farmers’ Market is still on: Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Imperial Avenue parking lot.
“Farmers don’t head inside when it rains,” the Market says. “Produce does not press pause — nor do we.
“While we might not have the perfect sunny day, we have the perfect array of food for your kitchen.”
In addition to 36 vendors, the market features “Get Growing” — educating kids on the value of shopping local through art projects and activities — plus music and more.
A little rain won’t stop the Farmers’ Market. (Photo/Quinn Fitts)
Vibrant Health — the Westport-based Vibrant Health premium superfood formulas and dietary supplements company — will not officially launch its rebrand until January.
But the new logo design and assorted branding has already won 3 awards.
None of it would have happened though, without Startup Westport.
The town’s public/private organization for tech, innovators and entrepreneurs has a strong networking component.
At one meeting, Ted Schachter introduced Vibrant Health owners Ted and Paige Parker to CJ Yeh from Cinda Media, and their design team.
The design “conveys growth, innovation, and the synergy between science and holistic well-being.” It even includes a new typeface.
More than 3,200 videos were created this year, from around the world. Students could choose to focus on Child Well-being, Rainforest Ecosystems or Sanitation, with at least one idea for a sustainable solution.
The BMS youngsters filmed “The Scoop on Poop.”
Olivia says, “We love animals, and we knew that deforestation was destroying a lot of their homes in the rainforest.”
Research was inspired by Chloe’s grandparents, who had a notebook from Thailand made from elephant feces.
Workshop instructor Sean Murphy helped his students bring their ideas to life. Click on the video below to see their work.
There’s another for sale. It’s $5,000. If interested, email carladdisonswanson@yahoo.com.
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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club guest speaker was a familiar face: Westport Library executive diretor Bill Harmer.
He spoke about the effect of technology (research queries are up, because Google does not have all the answers), the success of Verso Studios and Verso University, and an exciting new creative project to be announced soon.
Westport Library director Bill Harmer, at the Rotary Club. (Photo/Alec Foege)
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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature — a swallowtail butterfly — was found warming itself by the side of the Sherwood Diner.
And finally … in honor of the sculpture for sale by Carl Addison Swanson and JoAnn Miller (story above):
(There’s no question about it: “06880” relies on reader support. Here’s the answer: Please click here to make a tax-deductible contribution. Here’s the follow-up: Thank you very much!)
Animal control officer Joe Saponare asks residents: “Please stay away from a baby deer at Grace Salmon Park, on Imperial Avenue.
“The mother deer is close by. But she will not come for her baby, with a lot of people around it.
“Please keep your dogs on a leash there too, for the next few days.”
Animal control officer Joe Saponare, with baby deer.
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“Sunday Gravy” has rapidly become one of the most popular talk shows on WICC-AM and 95.9 FM.
Hosts Chris O’Dell, Mac DeVito and Brian Philpott banter easily about “men’s lifestyle” topics. But they dive deeply into serious issues, and address them with nuance and perspective.
The topic this past Sunday was the non-renewal of Staples boys soccer head coach Russell Oost-Lievense.
O’Dell had a special interest in it: The longtime freshman coach was also not renewed.
But the show was not a gripe session. It focused on process and policies — and broader implications, for Staples and Westport.
You can listen here. (NOTE: The actual show starts about 8 minutes in, following the news.)
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Residents of Wilton Road between Partrick Road and River Lane heard an enormous boom yesterday afternoon. The ground shook.
The wind brought down an enormous oak tree, and entangled power lines. Dozens of customers lost power.
In just a couple of months, The Clubhouse has become Westport’s go-to spot for golf-and-more simulators, huge screen TV sports, karaoke, good food, corporate meetings, parties, and a rooftop lounge.
Now there’s more: a big new mural.
This was the scene the other day, as the colorful work took place:
Whether working remotely, recently retired, or an empty nester, it’s easy to lose touch with community life.
The Westport Weston Family Y’s new Storied Connections Program is a fun and meaningful way to reconnect, by sharing stories about professional journeys (based on weekly prompts).
As renovations of the Inn at Longshore continue, La Plage — the adjacent restaurant — is now open 7 days a week. The patio is also open (weather dependent).
Drummer Matt Wilson is well recognized for his style. He is also a gifted composer, bandleader, producer and teaching artist.
Bassist Harvie S has appeared on over 400 recordings as a sideman, 20 of his own albums, and another 15 as co-leader. He has played with nearly every major jazz artist over the past 45 years.
Both musicians — along with pianist Luis Perdomo and saxophonist Greg Wall — bring their talents to this week’s Jazz at the Post (Thursday, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner from 7; music cover $20; $15 for veterans and students). Reservations are available here.
Today’s way-too-cute “Westport … Natrually” feature comes hopping along, from Wendy Levy’s yard:
(Photo/Wendy Levy)
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And finally … on this day in 1927=, Charles Lindbergh took off for Paris from Roosevelt Field in Long Island. His Spirit of St. Louis landed in Paris 33 1/2 hours later: the first nonstop solo flight across the Atlantic.
More than 2 decades later, he, his wife Anne Morrow Lindbergh and family arrived on Long Lots Road. They lived there for several years, near the Fairfield border, before moving to Darien.
(“06880” will be as lucky as Lindy, if you click here to donate to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you!
For decades, right-wing politicians and media have stoked racial fears, demonized immigrants and spread Islamaphobia. At the same time, they’ve driven a narrative of white victimization.
Politicians like Hillary Clinton, Jamie Raskin and Terry McAuliffe have decried the tactics, which helped drive the polarized society we see today.
Others – like former Trump operatives Steve Bannon, Rick Gates and Sam Nunberg — freely admit to the tactics.
Now, all of them — along with media experts like Brian Stelter of CNN, and Jonathan Alter of Newsweek — appear in one documentary, discussing candidly how race and religion have been used to divide America.
Steve Bannon, in “White With Fear.”
“White With Fear” was written, directed and produced by Westporter Andrew Goldberg.
After being screened in theaters across the country since March, its final showing is May 29, at the Westport Library. The film will then be available through video on demand.
Goldberg — who moved here in 2020, drawn in part by the creative sensibility exemplified by his friend Andrew Wilk, along with an open-minded vibe, strong Jewish community, amenities and beauty — is an Emmy Award-winning investigative producer.
He has directed 14 primetime documentaries for PBS, and worked with CBS “Sunday Morning,” ABC News and NPR.
But “White With Fear” is especially important, and close to his heart.
Goldberg began the project in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, when rage on both sides was at a boiling point.
“Everyone was talking about white people. I wanted to do a film on them, but the topic was too broad. What I could do was focus on how they’ve been manipulated.
“More than 50 years ago, Richard Nixon recognized that scaring white people about the fears of Black people could be his route to the presidency.” Ever since, Goldberg says, not one Democratic candidate for president has won a majority of white votes.
“Republican electoral strategy has been about racial exploitation. It’s terrifying.”
Goldberg interviewed political operatives going back decades: those mentioned above, along with a former Breitbart writer, former Oath Keepers and Republican National Committee spokesmen, the author of the Mitt Romney post-election report, and many others, on both sides of the aisle.
“A lot of them love to talk,” he says. “You ask, and they’re happy to tell you. They mean what they say.”
“White with Fear” is not, Goldberg notes, “Democrats pointing fingers at Republicans.” There are plenty of Republicans talking about their strategy too.
Stuart Stevens, former Republican campaign strategist.
While making the film, Goldberg says, he learned “how cynical that strategy is, and how central to the effort it is.
“Seeing the Trump roundup of Hispanics in the US — some of them documented, some of them not — does not make a dent in the number of undocumented people.
“But it does make headlines. It makes people feel like the administration is doing something. It keeps the party stoked and exited. And Fox makes billions of dollars scaring people.”
Among Goldberg’s interviewees: Joe Peyronnin, former Fox News president.
“No one who sees the film says ‘I already knew all that,'” Goldberg says.
Hillary Clinton.
Reviews have been excellent. It’s been called “riveting” and “masterful.” Every Rotten Tomato viewer ranked it “fresh.”
The limited theatrical run — in places like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Santa Fe and Honolulu, but not hundreds of screens nationwide — is partly because that’s the nature of documentaries.
But another part is that many theaters refused to show it.
“People in the arts community are terrified ,” Goldberg says. “Arts funding is being cut. The Kennedy Center has been taken over. Why put something on that could lead to problems?”
Which is why, he says, “bravo to the Westport Library for being bold.”
“White With Fear” will be shown at the Westport Library on May 29 (7 p.m.). A talkback with director Andrew Goldberg follows. More details are available here.
The 9th annual Dog Festival is today (Sunday), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Winslow Park.
Crazy competitions, vendors, an obstacle course, K-9 demos, food trucks, photos, adoptables, Gilbert the Party Pig — your dog is already tugging at his leash to go.
It’s $10 per person, $30 for a family of 4. Dogs are free!
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The first Y’s Men of Westport & Weston media panel discussion, featuring Senator Richard Blumenthal — about coverage of the 2024 election — riveted a Westport Library audience earlier this year.
The next one — June 1 (2 p.m.) should be just as compelling.
The focus is on how well print, electronic and social media covered the first 100 days of the Trump administration.
Panelists include: Congressman Jim Himes; Alisyn Camerota, author, blogger and veteran of CNN and Fox News; Rebecca Surran, the longtime face and voice for local news at News 12; Jim Marpe, former Westport 1st selectman, and Aaron Weinstein of Fairfield University’s media department.
The Westport Downtown Association adds some fun facts about their 52nd annual Fine Arts Festival, set for next weekend (May 24-25) on Main and Elm Streets, and Church Lane:
261 artists applied for 167 spots, in 14 categories. They come from 19 states.
Seven are from Westport: Mikhail Zakhalov (jewelry), Mary Ann Neilson (painting), Gali Katz (printmaking), and photographers Nancy Breakstone, Tom Kretsch, Ron Lake and John Videler.
42 artists — the most ever — will make their debut festival appearance.
Photographer Nancy Breakstone returns to the Fine Arts Festival.
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AWARE is one of my favorite organizations.
The acronym stands for Assisting Women through Action, Resources and Education, and that’s exactly what these Westport women do.
Each year, they choose one very worthy local nonprofit. They raise funds — but do much, much more.
All year long, they offer hands-on involvement. They dive deep into each organization’s work, get their hands dirty with volunteer work, and form deep friendships with leaders and participants.
This year’s beneficiary is Bridgeport’s Center for Family Justice. They do crucial work helping people who have experienced physical and mental abuse.
AWARE’s partnership this year has included workshops for their clients, including budgeting, yoga, nutrition and makeovers, along with events for children in their programs.
A “Justice in Bloom” fundraiser is set for May 29 (6 to 8 p.m.). It includes cocktails, light bites, and a chance to meet Center for Family Justice representatives.
Like many readers, Aimee Monroy Smith was moved by Matthew Gotto’s recent “06880” Opinion piece about drastic cuts proposed for the Bridgeport school system.
She writes: “I am a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club. Twice a year we read at Luis Muñoz Marin Elementary School. It is an amazing school, and always an enjoyable experience.
“This year, a fellow Rotarian recommended taking the next step to support the classrooms, by giving through DonorChoose.org. It supports teachers who request specific items for their classrooms.
“Following up this idea, I noticed that the Dalio Foundation is matching all contributions.”
Click on DonorChoose here; then select “See Classroom Projects,” and select “Bridgeport, CT” from the map.
Matthew Gatto, with Blackham Elementary School students.
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A Westport woman wanted to give back to the community she loves.
She posted on social media that she’d be giving away dozens of tomatoes and dahlia bulbs, at the foot of her driveway.
They were gone quickly.
Because one person took them all — every plant. Plus the table they were sitting on, which the woman’s daughter had made (and had great sentimental value).
The selfish thief even took the broken crate the dahlias were in. And a dirty towel.
The woman had been planning her next giveaway to the community: 40 pepper plants.
But no longer. She figures one person does not deserve all of them, too.
Plants, table and crate, before they were all taken.
Wakeman Town Farm tells all local chefs, caterers and foodie friends that their farmer expects a big haul of 100 heads of freshly grown organic lettuces, and 70 pounds of garlic scapes in early June.
Westport Rotary Club, the Sunrise Rotary and Westport Police Department joined together yesterday, on a food drive for Homes with Hope.
It was their first-ever at Big Y. As they always do — wherever volunteers collect for a pantry, or any other good cause — Westporters came through.
Community service, at Big Y.
Quickly, the donations were delivered to the Gillespie Center:
But that was not the only service rendered by Rotarians, on their worldwide day of community work.
They also gardened at the men’s and women’s shelters on Jesup Green … among many other activities.
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Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the Independence Day fireworks are set for July 2. We should add that the rain date is July 3.
And although the press release said that tickets would be available at the Parks & Recreation Department office in Longshore starting May 26, that’s Memorial Day. They’ll be closed. They’ll be open May 27, of course.
And the police station never closes, so they’ll have tickets on May 26.
Getting ready for Westport’s biggest party. (Drone photo/Charlie Scott)
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Speaking of Compo Beach: the Parks & Recreation Department has partnered with the Westport Arts Advisory Committee to launch a brand-new initiative: the Compo Mural Art Competition.
Residents are invited to design a mural that will bring “color, creativity and connection to the spirit of Compo Beach…. This can include sea life, beaches, marine landscapes, water activities, or the general beauty and vibe of the coastal area.” The site is the long white wall on the side of the Hook’d concession building.
All ages and levels of ability can enter. Submissions can be emailed to pkoskinas@westportct.gov, or dropped off at the Parks & Rec office in Longshore. The deadline is July 7. Full competition details can be found here. (Hat tip: Britt Steel)
Who was that on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival Friday night?
Cameron Mann.
Cameron Mann (far left) at Cannes.
The 2024 Staples graduate — known for, among other things, his role in “Mare of Easttown” (spoiler alert: He was the killler) — is part of the cast of “Eddington.”
The film — starring Austin Butler, Emma Stone, Pedro Pascal and Joaquin Phoenix — debuted at the 78th annual French event. According to Variety, it earned a 5-minute standing ovation.
A commentary on American social discourse, it follows “a standoff between a small-town sheriff (Phoenix) and mayor (Pascal)” that “sparks a powder keg as neighbor is pitted against neighbor in Eddington, New Mexico.”
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Westport’s longtime information technology director Eileen Zhang is retiring.
She joined the town 30 years ago, when IT infrastucture was just beginning. She helped build Westport’s information systems and digital services across all departments.
When a successor is named this summer, he or she will be our first new information technology director of the millennium.
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Westporters have many reasons to be grateful for Miggs Burroughs.
The Staples High School graduate and Artists Collective of Westport co-founder has contributed many works to town, from his lenticular art at the train station and Main Street “Tunnel of Love,” to the 150th-anniversary flag he designed in 1986.
Now he’s done it again.
The Senior Center is presenting “Gratitude,” a series of his photos. They show 9 people, each expressing a letter from the word “gratitude,” in American Sign Language.
Through his lenticular technique, their hands appear to move. A simple gesture transforms into a powerful tribute to appreciation and connection.
The models — all associated with the Senior Center — are Prill Boyle, Penny Pearlman, Janet Turansky, George Kleros, Ruth Taranto, Janice Burke, Leslie markus, Molly Algera and Lee Walther.
Miggs Burroughs, with his “Gratitude” exhibit at the Senior Center.
Today’s brilliant “Westport … Naturally” image comes from Thursday’s Westport Farmers’ Market. Amy Schneider saw — at photographed — it at the Muddy Feet Flower Farm stand.
And finally … Charles Strouse — the Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award-winning Broadway composer of hits like “Annie” and “Bye Bye Birdie” — died Thursday in Manhattan. He was 96. A full obituary is here.
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“More than 50 years ago, Richard Nixon recognized that scaring white people about the fears of Black people could be his route to the presidency.” Ever since, Goldberg says, not one Democratic candidate for president has won a majority of white votes.
